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Literary notes about serious (AI summary)

The term "serious" in literature often conveys a range of nuanced meanings, from a solemn demeanor to the gravity of a situation or emotion. In some works, it marks a character’s intent or mood, as when a character displays a “serious air” that sets the tone for an important life event [1] or assumes a careful, reflective disposition [2]. Other writers use it to underscore the weight of a circumstance—whether the significant consequences of an action are emphasized, as in discussions of severe outcomes [3, 4], or the earnestness in emotional or intellectual engagements is highlighted [5, 6]. At times, the term even acquires a conversational quality, serving to question or confirm the level of intent behind remarks [7, 8]. Overall, “serious” operates as a versatile modifier that enriches narrative tone and deepens character insight.
  1. Shaking with serious air the head, In whispers low the neighbours said: 'Tis time she to the altar went!
    — from Eugene Oneguine [Onegin] by Aleksandr Sergeevich Pushkin
  2. How now, brother Edmund, what serious contemplation are you in? EDMUND.
    — from The Tragedy of King Lear by William Shakespeare
  3. “The consequences of violent dancing may be really serious.
    — from The Gentlemen's Book of Etiquette and Manual of Politeness by Cecil B. Hartley
  4. This was a matter for serious consideration.
    — from A Journey to the Centre of the Earth by Jules Verne
  5. She has a liking for conversation on serious subjects, of any kind; in fact they please her so much, that it flatters her to discuss them.
    — from The Idiot by Fyodor Dostoyevsky
  6. Friendship is a serious affection; the most sublime of all affections, because it is founded on principle, and cemented by time.
    — from A Vindication of the Rights of Woman by Mary Wollstonecraft
  7. " "Are you serious?" "Quite serious, Basil.
    — from The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
  8. "I suppose one must be serious sometimes.
    — from The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

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